Plugged In: MG launches cheapest EV, states push EV taxes, and more charging locations

As the electric vehicle transition begins to pick up pace in Australia, we have launched a new weekly feature to give you a round up of what’s happened each week in the local EV industry and community.

And there’s a lot happening, regardless of (and this week because of!) thin support from government to accelerate Australia towards clean, zero emissions transport.

Week ending November 13, 2020

MG celebrates its first electric car in Australia, with lowest price EV in the country

A milestone moment was reached this week when Chinese-owned MG introduced the ZS EV, its first electric vehicle in Australia, and revealed it will cost $43,990 driveaway making it the cheapest EV on the local market. You can check out Giles Parkinson’s drive day review of the MG ZS EV here.

South Australia considers road user tax for electric vehicles – but it will likely defeated

South Australia government announces it will propose an EV tax, stirring uproar from EV advocates before the SA crossbench indicates it will not support the motion.

NSW then follows suit but cops criticsim from EV advocates

News that NSW will consider an EV tax labelled “madness”, but is roundly criticised by automotive and climate industry experts alike.

Tasmania on the other hand announces 100% EV target for government fleet

Tasmania’s Liberal government pledges to transition vehicle fleet to 100% electric vehicles by 2030, to boost uptake in the state and cut dependence on liquid fuels.

Victoria asked to ditch “out-dated” network fees making EV fast-chargers unviable

Meanwhile, Victoria government has been asked to ditch ‘out-dated’ network access fees to speed roll-out of new EV fast-chargers.

Chargefox opens first ultra-fast charger in Western Australia, signs deal with Volvo

Chargefox’s ultra-rapid electric car charging network expands to Western Australia as the company inks deal with Volvo.

BMW unveils “flagship” all-electric SUV, confirms Australian release

BMW confirms its iX electric SUV will come to Australia during a global launch of the production version of the BMW iNext concept.

“It’s the right time”: Lexus confirms all-electric UX 300e for Australia

Lexus confirms luxury compact UX300e SUV, the company’s first all-electric vehicle, will debut in Australia at Melbourne Cup in November 2021.